Is One Really Better Than the Other? Get the Scoop on Granite vs. Quartz
Homeowners and home remodelers have strong opinions about countertops, which get plenty of daily activity and attention.
After all, if you’re cooking and cleaning your kitchen multiple times a day, you need a countertop that is durable, cleanable, and retains its vibrant appearance.
In our latest guide, we compare the two most popular materials on the market: quartz vs. granite countertops.
We give you a detailed description of quartz and granite countertops, compare the pros and cons, and discuss the factors to consider when choosing which is best for your home.
So, let’s get started with your kitchen remodel in Bangor, ME!
What Are Quartz Countertops?
Quartz countertops are engineered stone countertops made primarily from natural quartz crystals mixed with resins and pigments.
They contain a durable, non-porous surface suitable for various applications in kitchens.
Quartz countertops are available in a wide range of colors and patterns, which make them versatile enough to work in almost any kitchen setting.
What Are They Made Of?
Quartz countertops are made of engineered stone and typically contain 90-95% ground natural quartz crystals.
The remaining 5-10% consists of polymer resins and pigments for binding.
Manufacturers may add recycled glass or metallic flakes to create ornate designs.
How Are Quartz Countertops Made or Processed?
The manufacturer mixes crushed quartz with resins and pigments in a vacuum environment.
The mixture is then poured into molds and compressed under high pressure.
Finally, the slabs are cured, polished, and cut to size for installation.
5 Key Features of Quartz Countertops:
- Consistent color and pattern throughout the entire quartz countertop slab
- Non-porous surface that doesn’t require sealing
- Higher flexural strength due to resin content
- Available in a wider range of colors and patterns
- Uniform composition with no weak points or fissures
What Are Granite Countertops?
Granite countertops are natural stone surfaces quarried from the earth.
They consist of igneous rock formed from cooled magma or lava.
Granite slabs are cut, polished, and installed as durable kitchen countertops.
What Are They Made Of?
Granite primarily contains quartz, feldspar, and mica minerals.
The minerals form interlocking crystals during the rock’s slow cooling process.
Adding minerals adds to the varied colors and patterns on the countertop surface.
How Are Granite Countertops Made or Processed?
Granite is extracted from quarries using specialized cutting equipment.
Large blocks are sliced into slabs of the desired thickness for countertops.
Fabricators cut, shape, and polish the slabs to fit specific kitchen layouts.
5 Key Features of Granite Countertops:
- Natural stone with unique patterns in each slab
- Heat-resistant surface that can withstand high temperatures, but caution is still advised when placing hot pans on the surface
- Requires periodic sealing to maintain its non-porous properties
- Visible crystalline structure with depth and dimension
- Available in a wide range of natural colors
5 Factors to Consider When Choosing Between a Quartz Countertop vs. a Granite Countertop
If you’re going to survive your kitchen remodel, you need to look beyond the initial investment, installation costs, and aesthetics.
So, think about long-term issues such as surface retention, cleaning requirements, maintenance, and repairs.
Also, consider how your countertop, made from natural materials, will impact the environment.
Here are 5 factors to consider when choosing between quartz vs. granite countertops:
1. What Does It Look Like?
Quartz
Quartz countertops display a deep, three-dimensional appearance with consistent coloration and patterning throughout the slab.
They feature distinct aesthetics, from solid colors to veined designs that mimic natural stone.
Quartz counters exhibit a lustrous finish that highlights the material’s crystalline structure and engineered composition.
Granite
Granite countertops exhibit unique, intricate patterns of interlocking mineral crystals visible to the naked eye.
They offer an array of colors, from subtle earth tones to vibrant hues, with contrasting flecks and veins.
Each granite slab features distinct, naturally occurring variations in texture, color intensity, and mineral distribution.
2. How Easy Is it to Clean and Maintain?
Quartz
A quartz countertop requires minimal maintenance due to its non-porous nature.
For daily cleaning, use mild dish soap and warm water with a soft cloth or sponge.
Avoid harsh chemicals and abrasive cleaners on a quartz countertop, as they can dull the surface; instead, use specialized quartz cleaners for tough stains.
Granite
Clean granite countertops daily using mild dish soap and warm water with a soft cloth or sponge.
Avoid acidic or abrasive cleaners.
Instead, use pH-neutral granite-specific products for deep cleaning and disinfecting.
Reseal granite annually or as needed.
Test water absorption to determine when to reseal the surface.
3. How Long Does it Last?
Both quartz and granite countertops are incredibly durable materials.
Quartz
Quartz countertops are highly durable due to their engineered composition of 90-95% natural quartz crystals bound with polymer resins.
They resist scratches, chips, and stains, scoring 7 out of 10 on the Mohs hardness scale.
A quartz countertop can last 20-30 years with proper care and maintenance.
Granite
Granite countertops score 6-7 on the Mohs hardness scale, making them highly resistant to scratches and chips.
They withstand temperatures up to 480°F (250°C) without damage, which is ideal for kitchen use.
Granite countertops can last 50 years or more with proper sealing and maintenance.
4. Is it Environmentally Friendly Natural Stone?
Quartz
The quartz manufacturing process adds recycled materials, with some quartz countertops containing up to 35% post-consumer recycled glass.
The material’s non-porous nature reduces the need for harsh chemical cleaners and sealants.
So, it contributes to lower volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions.
Granite
The quarrying process for granite can have significant environmental effects, including habitat disruption and energy consumption.
However, the material is recyclable and can be repurposed.
The EPA recommends cleaning and sealing a granite countertop surface to prevent radon emissions.
5. What Do Repairs Include?
Quartz
Repairing quartz countertops is challenging due to their non-porous surface, which makes bonding repair materials difficult.
Specialized acrylic adhesives or epoxy resins are necessary to restore the surface.
However, even if you fix the structural damage, color matching can be tricky. Significant damage usually requires professional help to repolish the surface.
In some cases, you’ll need to replace the countertop.
Granite
Granite repairs may be easier due to the stone’s porous nature, which allows repair materials to bond better.
You can use color-matched epoxy mixed with granite dust for better blending. Granite can be ground down and re-polished.
So, there’s more flexibility with the repair.
You can also buff out minor scratches and etching.
Compare the Pros and Cons of Quartz vs. Granite Countertops
Both quartz counters and granite countertops are timeless features that transcend kitchen remodeling trends.
So, when comparing the pros and cons of quartz and granite countertops, consider how their unique features fit in with your kitchen remodeling goals.
Additionally, take into account the cost per square foot for installation, as this can significantly impact your budget.
Which type of stone matches your kitchen design?
How do the features enhance your lifestyle?
What are you most looking to achieve by installing new countertops?
Here’s an at-a-glance comparison of each type of countertop:
| Quality | Quartz | Granite |
|---|---|---|
| Durability | ••••• | •••• |
| Ease of maintenance | ••••• | ••• |
| Repairability | ••• | •••• |
| Mold resistant | ••••• | ••• |
| Stain resistant | ••••• | ••• |
| Burn resistant | ••• | ••••• |
| Scratch resistant | •••• | •••• |
| Eco-friendly | ••• | •••• |
| Style options | •••• | ••••• |
| Ease of installation | ••• | ••• |
These pros and cons may help you decide the best stone for your kitchen.
Quartz Countertops
Quartz countertops offer a blend of durability, beauty, and low maintenance that may appeal to you.
Engineered surfaces combine natural quartz crystals with polymer resins, resulting in a non-porous material resistant to stains and scratches.
Pros:
- Highly durable and resistant to scratches and chips
- A non-porous surface prevents bacterial growth and staining
- A wide range of colors and patterns
- Low maintenance with no need for sealing
Cons:
- Higher initial cost compared to some natural stones
- Less heat-resistant than granite or marble countertops
- Visible seams may be present in larger installations
- Not suitable for outdoor use due to UV sensitivity
Quartz countertops provide a practical and stylish solution for many kitchens and bathrooms.
Their durability and easy maintenance can offset the higher initial investment.
Granite Countertops
Each slab of granite in your countertop presents a one-of-a-kind pattern, with variations in color and mineral composition that cannot be replicated in manufactured materials.
When considering granite countertops, weigh factors such as sealing requirements, natural imperfections, and the stone’s inherent properties.
Pros:
- Unique, natural patterns create a luxurious, high-end appearance
- Highly resistant to heat, ideal for cooking areas
- Increases home value due to its timeless appeal
- Can be repaired and repolished if damaged over time
Cons:
- Requires periodic sealing to maintain stain resistance
- Natural fissures may be mistaken for cracks or damage
- Limited color options compared to engineered countertops
- Heavier weight may require additional structural support
Granite countertops offer a timeless elegance that can elevate any kitchen design.
Natural variations and long-lasting performance make them a great choice if you’re looking for a quality surface.
However, you should consider the maintenance requirements and natural characteristics of granite.
How a Kitchen Remodeler in Bangor Can Help You Decide
Professional remodelers bring valuable insights to the quartz vs granite debate, drawing from years of hands-on experience.
They can identify subtle factors you might overlook, like how your cooking habits affect material choice.
They’ll explain how each stone interacts with your local climate and water quality, impacting long-term maintenance needs.
Someone who’s seen hundreds of countertops has access to a wider range of samples than retail showrooms.
They can demonstrate how different finishes and edge profiles change the look and function of each material.
Remodelers also provide detailed cost breakdowns, including hidden expenses like special installation requirements or potential future repairs.
Their practical knowledge helps you decide on aesthetics, durability, maintenance, and budget.
Elevate Your Kitchen in Bangor with Springwood Builders
Now that you have a game plan for launching your kitchen remodel, it’s time to choose a kitchen remodel contractor who can carry you through the process with style and ease.
Springwood Builders has the expertise to handle all kitchen remodeling needs, ensuring a seamless and stress-free experience.
Fill out our contact form today, or call for an estimate on professional kitchen remodeling in Bangor.
